Irvington Students Learn About Ancient Civilizations

Fifth-grader students at Main Street School deepened their understanding of the history and culture of the Western Hemisphere when they participated in the annual Mesoamerica Day April 29.

The students worked in groups to solve problems and research the history of the ancient civilizations of the Aztec, Incan and Mayan people, a spokesman for the district said.

As part of the culminating activities to their study, the students became archaeologists and dug for lost treasures. Some designed and built structures representing different eras in Mesoamerica, while others created skits to re-enact turning points in the history of the civilizations.

“By the end of the day, the students walked away with a deeper understanding of life during these ancient times,” Principal Joyce Chapnick said. 

Thanks to a grant from the Irvington PTSA, the students also had the opportunity to listen to music and play instruments from the Aztec, Incan and Mayan eras.

Photo Caption: Main Street School students explored the history and culture of the Western Hemisphere. Photo courtesy of the Irvington Union Free School District.